The construction of the first phase of the Trekkopje Solar Project, a 27MW solar energy farm near Arandis, in Namibia has begun and should be completed by the first half of next year, All Africa reported. This first phase comprises the setting-up of the first 5MW capacity.

The new plant is owned by SertumEnergy Namibia, a partnership between young Namibian businessman Elton Katangolo and Italian energy expert and businessman Enrico Barbaglia. The later has been involved in the initial work done on the Kudu gas project in the late 1990s, and also headed Areva Namibia during the establishment of the Trekkopje uranium mine, The Namibian added.

An Italian-listed company which specialises in the development and construction of solar plants around the world, Enertronica, will help with the establishment of the 50 hectare solar farm that will comprise 18,000 solar panels fitted with sun trackers.